You can see why GOP power brokers judged that Carl DeMaio, loser to Filner, is too hot; Supervisor Ron Roberts too cold at this stage of his career; and Faulconer just right for this bearish season,

No question, he’s to the politic manner born.

Growing up in Oxnard, young Kevin often spent evenings at the back of council chambers, soaking up the reach of government. (His father worked in the city manager’s office.)

During summers, he regularly visited San Diego, falling in love early with the city he yearns to lead.

At San Diego State, Faulconer was Associated Students president, soothing residents agitated over drunken minidorms. (In a 1989 newspaper story, Faulconer told a reporter he made a point of keeping the noise down in deference to his neighbors.)

After graduating in 1990, Faulconer won a coveted public affairs fellowship in San Francisco. Back home in San Diego, he prospered as a public relations executive. (Expect attack ads to label him a “lobbyist.”) In 2006, he was elected to represent District 2, which includes hyper-liberal OB.

Can Faulconer break through to Democrats and independents in a citywide race as he’s done in District 2?